West Chicago Creek Campground

Idaho Springs, CO

4.3(93 reviews)

Start of the 360 degree virtual tour of West Chicago Creek Campground

About this campground

West Chicago Creek Campground near Idaho Springs, CO. West Chicago Creek Campground sits along its namesake creek at the base of Mount Evans and is located off Highway 103 on the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests in central Colorado. It is a popular facility for hiking and fishing enthusiasts.

Facilities

There are 15 sites available all suitable for RV and tent camping. Each site contains a tent pad, picnic table, charcoal grill and fire ring. Other amenities include a vault toilet, water spigot and trash dumpster. There are no RV hook-ups. Firewood is available for sale during peak season at the campground.

Natural Features

The campground sits at an elevation of 9,600 feet in an aspen and lodgepole pine forest. The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland are located in the foothills and slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. The forests and grassland cover 1.5 million acres and extend north to the Wyoming border, south to Mount Evans and west across the Continental Divide. The area encompasses mountains, lakes and five scenic byways, designated by Congress for their scenery, wildlife or history, including the highest road in North America. Mount Evans Road, also known as Colorado Highway 5, allows visitors to drive from 10,500' to 14,130' above sea level in just 14 miles.

Recreation

The area provides easy access to many hiking trails that lead into the Mount Evans Wilderness. West Chicago Creek offers good fishing for rainbow, brown and brook trout.

What campers say

West Chicago Creek Campground sits high in the mountains along a rushing creek with easy access to trails (including the Hells Hole/Lake Edith area). Sites are well spaced, many with fire rings, grills, picnic tables and bear‑proof storage. It’s remote — expect narrow gravel roads, limited/no cell service, no hookups or potable water, and cold nights — so bring supplies and warm gear. Bathrooms are vault/pit style with mixed reports about cleanliness. Visitor experiences with hosts vary from helpful to unpleasant. Summer insects (no‑see‑ums, flies, bees) can be bothersome. Ideal for prepared campers seeking a quiet, scenic spot.

Our summary of 93 traveler reviews.